The problem of tobacco use in India is becoming more serious every day. About 267 million adults, or 29% of the adult population, are addicted to tobacco. This has created a major public health crisis. The Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS) India 2016-17 shows that smokeless tobacco is the most common form of consumption.
However, the situation varies across the country. For example, the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) data reveals that in states like Telangana, 22.3% of men aged 15 and above use tobacco. This makes Telangana a critical area in the fight against tobacco use.
Dr. P. Shashikala Palkonda, former Dean and Professor of Microbiology at Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, highlights the severity of the issue. She states that with such a high number of tobacco users, it’s essential to update tobacco cessation policies to include effective alternatives. These should be scientifically proven options available only to serious smokers who are committed to quitting. By learning from countries like Japan, Sweden, the UK, and the USA, India can introduce safer alternatives like Heated Tobacco Products (HTPs) to help combat addiction.
The challenge is to find a balance between public health and individual freedom. While quitting entirely is the best goal, many smokers find it hard to do so. This is where harm reduction comes in. By offering scientifically proven alternatives to traditional cigarettes, we can reduce the severe health risks associated with tobacco use.
Dr. Mohsin Wali, a Padma Shri Awardee, agrees that the current framework for quitting tobacco needs to be updated. He suggests adopting harm reduction strategies that have worked in other countries. For example, safer alternatives like Heated Tobacco Products (HTPs), used in over 80 countries, have shown promise in helping people quit smoking while reducing harm. It’s time for India to consider these scientifically backed alternatives to protect public health.
The journey to a tobacco-free India is long and difficult. However, by understanding the complexities of addiction and taking a practical approach, we can make significant progress. Policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public must work together to create a healthier future for everyone.
As we move forward, it’s important to realize that achieving a tobacco-free India involves more than just reducing use. It requires changing how we approach quitting tobacco. This change depends on integrating global best practices tailored to India’s needs. By using international success stories and scientific advancements, India can implement more effective tobacco control measures.
Addressing tobacco use in Telangana and across India is urgent. The data from NFHS-5 and the Global Adult Tobacco Survey highlights the need for updated policies and harm reduction alternatives. Experts suggest that adopting scientifically validated strategies can meet the specific needs of the population. This approach offers a healthier future, free from the grip of tobacco addiction.
